Sleep Apnea

Peter Adams Family Dentistry, located in Chesapeake, Virginia, treats patients with sleep apnea through the use of dental appliances. For patients with mild to moderate sleep apnea, who are unable to tolerate the CPAP device, dental appliances have proven to be a very successful sleep apnea treatment.

Call for an appointment. (757) 547-0222

What is sleep apnea?

Sleep apnea is characterized by pauses in breathing during sleep. These pauses in breathing may last seconds or minutes and may occur several times within an hour; anywhere from 5 to 30 times. Often these periods of breathlessness are accompanied by awakening and gasping for air.

Symptoms of sleep apnea

If you experience any of the following common symptoms of sleep apnea, you should ask your doctor about testing or consult a sleep specialist:

Loud snoring followed by periods of silence

Gasping

Choking

Frequent waking

Tiredness after a full night’s sleep

Restless legs

Difficulty concentrating and performing daily activities

Waking with a dry mouth and headache

Sleep Apnea can be caused by a variety of things, so it is important to speak with your doctor and/or dentist. They can help test and determine the existence and severity of sleep apnea. This helps determine the best treatment. The standard of care for treating sleep apnea is through the use of a C-PAP device which is fitted by your physician and worn at night. For those with mild to moderate sleep apnea who cannot tolerate the C-PAP, a dental appliance may be the answer.

How do sleep apnea dental appliances work?

Sleep apnea dental appliances position the lower jaw forward and open the airway, thus allowing proper airflow, and alleviating the symptoms and serious effects of sleep apnea. Dental appliances are for patients with mild to moderate sleep apnea, who are unable to tolerate the CPAP device. Sleep apnea dental appliances must be worn nightly.

If you have sleep apnea, ask your doctor or sleep specialist if a dental appliance is a treatment option for you. Call us for an appointment so we can help you breathe regularly at nighttime. (757) 547-0222

Dangers of Sleep Apnea

Low blood oxygen levels during sleeping will over time cause damage to the heart and lungs. If sleep apnea goes untreated, it can increase your risk for high blood pressure, stroke, obesity and diabetes.

Sleep apnea disrupts sleep patterns, but it also comes with more serious consequences. When sleep apnea occurs, oxygen does not circulate in and out of the lungs, and blood oxygen levels are lowered. If you have sleep apnea, you are more tired and prone to more accidents. You can fall asleep while driving, working or cooking.To learn about dental services provided by Peter Adams Family Dentistry click here.

Dr. Peter Adams Family Dental practice in Chesapeake Virginia – Serving all of Hampton Roads Virginia as well as Eastern North Carolina

No matter the dental procedure Dr. Adams will be the one at your side performing the procedure. The office stresses prevention and will help you to do the things necessary to prevent future problems with your teeth or gums. You will always receive the personalized care and attention you deserve. Dr. Adam’s patients come from Chesapeake, Northeastern North Carolina, Virginia Beach, Suffolk, Norfolk and Portsmouth.

Patient Information

I really enjoyed my visit to Dr. Adams office. The office manager was most helpful – I understand she’s new. The staff was attentive and friendly and the doctor was very thorough and gentle. I will definitely recommend him to my family and friends.- Ann